Here is a complete guide to Potato Rolls with Cheese and Chicken, covering its history, recipe, nutrition, and more.
🥔 Introduction & History of the Potato Roll
The story of the soft, slightly sweet potato roll, a key component of this recipe, began in Pennsylvania Dutch country in the 1950s. Founded by Lloyd and Lois Martin, the now-famous Martin’s potato roll was first baked in a single-car garage and sold at local farmers’ markets.
Its unique texture comes from potato starch, which retains more moisture than wheat, keeping the roll soft and pillowy. For decades, it remained a beloved staple in the American Northeast. Its popularity exploded in the 2000s when Shake Shack chose it as their signature burger bun, praising its ability to cradle meat and absorb juices without getting soggy. Today, this humble roll is used by chefs worldwide and has become a symbol of nostalgic, high-quality comfort food.
📋 Recipe for Homemade Cheesy Chicken Potato Rolls
While you can use a famous brand of potato roll, this recipe teaches you how to make the rolls and filling from scratch for a truly homemade experience.
Cooking Overview
· Prep Time: 45 minutes
· Cook Time: 45 minutes
· Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
· Servings: 6-8 rolls
Ingredients
For the Potato Sheet (The “Roll” Base):
· 5 medium potatoes, peeled and grated
· 1 onion, finely chopped
· 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
· A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
· 3 large eggs
· 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
· Salt, black pepper, and paprika to taste
For the Cheesy Chicken Filling:
· 1 large chicken breast (or 2 fillets), diced
· 1 onion, chopped
· 1 red and 1 green bell pepper, chopped
· 5-6 mushrooms (about 150g), chopped
· 2 cloves garlic, minced
· ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
· ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
· 1 teaspoon cumin (optional)
· Salt and black pepper to taste
· Olive oil for sautéing
Equipment
· Cheese grater
· Mixing bowls
· Baking sheet
· Parchment paper
· Large skillet or frying pan
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Potato Base: Grate the potatoes. Rinse them in a strainer under cold water, then squeeze out all excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel. This step is crucial for a crisp base. In a bowl, combine the grated potato, chopped onion, bell pepper, parsley, eggs, flour, and spices. Mix until a uniform batter forms.
2. Bake the Potato Sheet: Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and grease it lightly. Spread the potato mixture evenly into a large, thin rectangle. Bake for 20-25 minutes until set and lightly golden. Remove and let it cool slightly.
3. Make the Filling: While the sheet bakes, heat olive oil in a pan. Sauté the onion until soft. Add the diced chicken and cook until no longer pink. Add the chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, and garlic. Cook until vegetables are tender. Season with salt, pepper, and cumin. Turn off the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese until it melts into the mixture.
4. Assemble the Rolls: Cut the baked potato sheet into squares or rectangles. Spoon a generous portion of the chicken filling onto one side of each piece. Carefully roll them up, starting from the filled side.
5. Final Bake: Place the rolls seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle the tops with mozzarella cheese and extra parsley. Bake at 200°C (390°F) for another 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Chef’s Tips for Success
· Perfect Texture: Squeezing the grated potato dry prevents a soggy base.
· Customize the Filling: Add spinach, corn, or swap chicken for ground turkey.
· Make-Ahead: Prepare the potato sheet and filling a day ahead. Assemble and bake just before serving.
📊 Nutrition & Benefits of Key Ingredients
This dish is a balanced meal with several nutritional benefits.
Nutritional Profile (Per Serving, Estimate)
· Calories: ~350-400 kcal
· Primary Macronutrients: A good balance of complex carbohydrates from the potato base, high-quality protein from the chicken and cheese, and healthy fats from olive oil and dairy.
· Key Vitamins/Minerals: Rich in Vitamin C (bell peppers), potassium (potatoes), calcium & protein (cheese), and B vitamins (chicken).
Health & Dietary Benefits
· Sustained Energy: Potatoes provide complex carbs for steady energy release.
· Muscle Maintenance: Chicken and cheese are excellent sources of complete protein.
· Nutrient-Dense: Packed with vegetables, offering fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
· Dietary Flexibility: Can be adapted to be gluten-free (use GF flour) and high-protein for fitness enthusiasts.
❤️ Who Loves This Dish & Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish has broad appeal:
· Comfort Food Lovers: Its warm, cheesy, savory flavor is universally satisfying.
· Home Cooks & Families: An impressive yet manageable recipe that is great for weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd.
· Meal Preppers: Rolls hold well in the fridge and reheat perfectly.
· Social Media Foodies: Its cheesy, golden appearance makes it a visually stunning dish for sharing.
How to Serve It
· For a Complete Meal: Serve with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a light soup.
· For Parties: Slice into smaller pinwheels and serve as an appetizer.
· Dipping Sauces: Pair with ranch dressing, garlic aioli, marinara, or a spicy sriracha mayo.
🎉 Conclusion
Potato Rolls with Cheese and Chicken are more than just a meal. They connect the historical charm of the American potato roll with the universal love for hearty, homemade food. This recipe lets you create a dish celebrated by everyone from famous chefs to home cooks, offering delicious taste, nutritional balance, and the joy of cooking from scratch.
I hope this comprehensive guide inspires you to create and enjoy this delightful dish. Would you like suggestions for a side salad or sauce to complete your meal?
